Diamond Shopping Tipss - Sell Diamonds

When you think of shopping for a diamond, most of us automatically think of the search for the engagement ring. Certainly there are other diamond possibilities out there that you may purchase throughout your life, but the basic rules for the engagement ring will carry you for those purchases as well.

First, study the basics of the 4Cs—cut, clarity, carat and color. These four facts determine not only the quality of the diamond you are purchasing, but also the price you will pay for it. You may think that once you have an understanding of these four factors you are well on your way. Not so fast. While the 4Cs will carry you far, there are some other things to consider, especially when it comes to engagement rings.

Think about the shape of the stone you want. There are nine shapes to choose from: round, emerald, princess, oval, marquise, asscher, radiant, cushion and pear. Certain shapes look better on different hands.

Next there is the setting. This is the gold or platinum frame that surrounds and holds the diamond. Again there are nine settings to choose from: prong, three-stone, baguette, bezel, half bezel, tension, channel, channel end, pave. Different settings work better with different shape stones. The setting can also determine how classic or modern the ring appears.

Get jeweler recommendations from friends and family before you buy. And make sure you get all the details of your diamond in writing beforehand. If you aren’t getting a diamond grading report from an independent group like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), then walk. Finally, when it actually comes time to slap down your cash, forget the two months salary rule—just buy the best you can without breaking the bank.